After months of delay, FG finally releases Rivers State funds
The Federal Government has finally released the withheld local government allocations for Rivers State, bringing relief to workers who have endured months without salaries.
Confirming the release of funds on Friday, the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), assured local government workers that salaries would be paid without further delay.
“I sincerely feel the pains of these workers, many of whom have endured months of hardship. Let me assure you that the withheld allocations have now been released, and I hereby issue a directive that all necessary steps be taken to ensure that these salaries are paid without any further delay,” Ibas stated.
The Supreme Court had previously withheld the state’s allocation due to concerns over proper appropriation by the Rivers State House of Assembly.
However, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, indicated on Wednesday that the funds could be released if requested by the sole administrator.
“If the administrator requests it, I will say it should be released to him. And to me, it will be in order for the release of that fund because the event of the extraordinary situation has brought them out of the normal situation of things,” Fagbemi stated.
Ibas has now directed all local government authorities to submit their wage bills and relevant documentation for immediate salary payments.
“Accordingly, I hereby direct that all local government councils should forward their wage bills and all relevant documentation to facilitate the immediate disbursement of salaries to affected workers,” he said.
He further emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring that all local government funds are used transparently and in the best interest of the people.
“I want to make it clear that these funds belong to the local government councils, and they must be used strictly for their intended purpose. There will be no room for misappropriation or diversion,” Ibas warned.
The sole administrator also urged the workers to remain patient as the government takes necessary steps to ensure the smooth disbursement of salaries.
“I understand the frustration that comes with delayed salaries, but I want to assure you that we are working round the clock to ensure that every local government worker receives their rightful wages as soon as possible,” he added.
